Looking to Earn An Online Computer Science Degree? Try UoPeople!

The number of computer science and information technology careers are projected to grow exponentially in the future. Between 2021 and 2031 the rate is expected to increase 15% according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). More and more students are pursuing a computer science degree to better position themselves for lucrative and rewarding careers in the industry. 

Did you know that you can earn your computer science degree completely online?

Online learning can help to save you money, free up your time, and allow you to devise your own schedule however you want it. 

Let’s take a look at all you need to know to earn an online computer science degree. 

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What is Computer Science?

Computer science is the study of computers and computational systems. Computer science is primarily focused on software systems as opposed to hardware. Therefore, students spend much of their time focused on the design, development, theory, and application of software and software systems. 

Benefits of an Online Computer Science Degree

When it comes to choosing a university or college where you can earn your computer science degree, you will find many options.  Some students prefer to learn in person as part of a traditional college environment. However, you may find that you prefer the online experience instead. 

Here’s why learning online can be so beneficial:

Flexibility

For starters, you gain immense flexibility with online learning. This is especially true if the learning is asynchronous, meaning that the lectures are recorded or you’re able to view the material at a different time than when it’s being taught. In these cases, you can design your schedule however you see fit so that you can learn on your own time. 

Cost-effective 

According to CollegeTuitionCompare.com, a typical U.S. public university charges an average of $25,947 per year for an Undergraduate degree in computer science. If you’re planning on earning a bachelor’s degree the cost comes to $103,788, not including the additional cost of living, school supplies, or additional fees. Online colleges are less expensive than traditional campuses because they have lower overhead costs.  For example, the University of the People is entirely online so there are no costs for books, instruction, or campus fees. A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from UoPeople is tuition-free and costs as little as $4,860. 

Lucrative job opportunities  

A degree in computer science can open up a multitude of lucrative career opportunities. Graduates with computer science degrees can become software developers, computer systems analysts, database administrators, and more. Per the BLS, the average U.S. wage for positions within the computer science was $97,430 in May 2021; a much higher average wage than all other occupations that average $45,760. 

Lower barrier to entry 

Online computer science degree programs also tend to have lower requirements for entry than their in-person counterparts. While it may not always be the case, it is certainly possible to find educational institutions that have 100% acceptance rates. At University of the People there are no stringent application requirements because it’s our mission to make college accessible and affordable for all. Students who wish to study computer science online can do so by supplying proof of English proficiency and a high school diploma or equivalent. In addition to meeting program-specific criteria, those interested will also need an application to University of the People.  

What Does an Online Computer Science Degree Cost?

The cost of an online computer science degree varies. As of August 2021, Best Colleges reported that the average cost of an online bachelor’s degree in computer science was $51,090. Remember back when we shared the average of an in-person program, which was about half of that per year? 

That being said, there are online programs that are much more cost-effective and start in the low thousands, like the University of the People. 

Keep in mind that when you are assessing computer science degree costs, you’ll have to factor in the cost of the technology and hardware that you may need. You’ll also want to consider your living expenses and supplies costs (but luckily, you can remove the cost of transportation since you can learn from home)! 

Also, when you’re ready to apply and set up your financial plan for school, don’t forget to explore your financial aid options. 

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Expected Coursework and Job Outlook

Students earning their computer science degree can expect to learn about computer systems, networks, security, vision and graphics, programming languages, bioinformatics, artificial intelligence, and the theory of computing, to name a few areas of study. 

As mentioned, the field of computer science and information technology is booming (growing at a much faster than average rate). Each position title and your level of education and experience will inform the amount you can earn. To give you an idea of your salary potential, PayScale reported that individuals who possess a bachelor’s degree in computer science earn an average of $88,000 annually. 

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Learning at the University of the People

We’ve dropped some tidbits about what it’s like to earn your computer science degree at the University of the People. 

You’ll get to pay a fraction of the cost of other institutions because we are tuition-free, so the only cost of the degree is tied to relatively low fees. Additionally, you can learn at your own pace and enjoy learning alongside a diverse student body, with people logging in from all over the world to learn. 

Most importantly, the University of the People is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission. For more on the importance of accreditation, check out this guide. 

High Quality of Education 

Regardless of where you access UoPeople’s online courses, the quality of the education is the same because the academic leadership team is from some of the most recognizable and revered universities around the world, including New York University, University of California, Berkeley, Stanford, Oxford, and more. 

At University of the People, the diversity of the staff and their expertise provide all students with the best access to knowledge and open up opportunities to expand their professional and academic network globally. 

Combined with the impressive lineup of educators, the program is comprehensive and practical. The coursework is structured to give a deep insight and understanding into the world of computer science but also develops the practical knowledge to apply what is learned in real-world scenarios. 

If a graduate degree is an ultimate goal, the Bachelor of Science degree positions students to continue learning as they’ll have the foundation of knowing programming languages and understanding database management. With this knowledge and experience under your belt, graduates from our bachelor’s in computer science program are well equipped to take their studies to the next level with a master’s degree. 

Program Structure

1. Intimate and Focused:

While the classes are 100% online, their setting of them is intimate and focused. The classes are usually around 30 students or less, so instructors can really focus on each individual student’s needs.

2. Unique Learning Experience

The setup provides for a unique learning experience that combines peer-based collaborative learning with advanced information technologies and the internet to create a sustainable and accessible learning environment.

3. Students from all over the world

Another interesting feature is that students join the program from all over the world, so there is a diversity that better positions students to connect with people they may otherwise never meet because of geographical barriers. 

4. Peer to Peer learning

With students from all over the globe, the pedagogical model is taken to the next level. The theory behind the pedagogical model is that studying within communities is more motivating and challenging than reading alone or listening to online lectures. The peer-learning methodology, with course instructor facilitation, stimulates students and offers them a powerful platform to learn from one another. This opens new doors to understanding cultures and undoubtedly introduces various perspectives that prepare students to work in any environment.

5. Class discussions

Within the online study communities, students share resources, exchange ideas, discuss weekly topics, submit assignments, and take exams. The curriculum is supported by course instructors who participate in class discussions and oversee all courses.

6. Weekly Assessment 

Even though the program is entirely online, the expectations of the students to demonstrate mastery of the coursework are still high. On average, students will need to dedicate 15-20 hours per week per course. Some course requirements include weekly readings, participation, peer assessment tasks, discussion forum responses, learning journal activities, and written assignments. Like traditional institutions, there are also quizzes throughout the course and a final exam or project at the end of the term. 

7. Affordability and Convenience 

Since the program is online, there are no overhead costs for buildings and books, which are big reasons why the university is able to be tuition free. Along with volunteers, scholarships, and the usage of the best technology, the costs you do pay become minimal — especially when compared with traditional colleges. 

The Digital Takeover 

Earning your computer science degree online can be a total game-changer. Not only do you get to absorb everything you need to know to enter the growing field, but you also get to do so with ultimate flexibility and freedom. 

To get more information about what it’s like to become a student at the University of the People, we invite you to visit this useful page filled with resources.